Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Chip Brownies

Indulging in a rich, fudgy brownie is one of life’s simplest pleasures, and when you add a layer of creamy peanut butter cups and gooey chocolate chips, it transforms into an extraordinary treat. Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Chip Brownies are the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet after dinner. These brownies are not just easy to make; they also combine the beloved flavors of chocolate and peanut butter in every decadent bite.

The Upside of Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Chip Brownies

Imagine sinking your teeth into a brownie that is not only moist and fudgy but also filled with the delightful surprise of peanut butter cups. The combination of textures—from the soft brownie base to the rich chocolate chips and the smooth peanut butter filling—creates a dessert experience that is truly unmatched. These brownies are perfect for chocolate lovers and peanut butter fanatics alike. Plus, they are a crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.

Ingredient Breakdown

• 1/2 cup (113g) butter: This adds richness and moisture to the brownies.
• 1/2 cup (107g) brown sugar, packed: Brown sugar enhances the fudgy texture and adds a hint of caramel flavor.
• 1/2 cup (99g) sugar: Regular sugar contributes to the sweetness and texture.
• 1 large egg (50g): The egg binds the ingredients together and helps create a tender crumb.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons (7g) vanilla extract: Vanilla adds a warm, aromatic flavor that elevates the brownies.
• 1 1/2 cups (180g) flour: Flour provides the structure for the brownies.
• 1/2 teaspoon (2g) sea salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.5g) baking soda: This helps the brownies rise slightly, giving them a lighter texture.
• 3/4 cup (128g) chocolate chips: Chocolate chips bring extra chocolatey goodness and melt beautifully into the batter.
• 12 (204g) peanut butter cups: The star ingredient that provides creamy, nutty flavor in every bite.

Gear Checklist

• Mixing bowl: For combining the wet and dry ingredients.
• Whisk: To mix the batter smoothly.
• Spatula: For folding in chocolate chips and peanut butter cups.
• 9×9 inch baking pan: The perfect size for baking these fudgy brownies.
• Parchment paper: To line the pan for easy removal.
• Oven mitts: Safety first when handling hot pans!

Mastering Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Chip Brownies: How-To

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for the perfect bake.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line your 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

Step 3: Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once fully melted, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Mix the Sugars

Add the brown sugar and granulated sugar to the melted butter. Stir until well combined and smooth.

Step 5: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Whisk in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and glossy.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sea salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Step 7: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 8: Add Peanut Butter Cups

Chop the peanut butter cups into smaller pieces and fold them into the brownie batter, ensuring they are evenly dispersed.

Step 9: Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 10: Cool and Slice

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares.

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

• Warm Weather: Serve these brownies chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a refreshing treat.
• Cool Weather: Enjoy them warm from the oven with a drizzle of hot fudge sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt.

Learn from These Mistakes

• Overmixing the batter can lead to tough brownies; mix just until combined.
• Be careful not to overbake; check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time.
• Don’t skip the parchment paper; it makes removing the brownies a breeze.
• Using old or stale chocolate chips can affect the flavor; use fresh ingredients for the best results.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare the brownie batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pour it into the prepared pan and bake as directed. Once baked, these Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Chip Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the brownies wrapped in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.

Common Qs About Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Chip Brownies

Can I use other types of chocolate in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes! You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring that it has a similar texture to regular flour.

What if I don’t have peanut butter cups?

If you cannot find peanut butter cups, you can substitute them with chocolate-covered peanut butter candies or simply add more chocolate chips and a dollop of peanut butter swirled into the batter.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger batch. Just use a larger baking pan and adjust the baking time as needed, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

Save & Share

If you love these Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Chip Brownies, make sure to save the recipe and share it with friends and family! These brownies are sure to become a favorite in your household, and sharing them will spread joy to those you care about.

Whether you’re making these decadent brownies for a special occasion or just because, each bite will remind you of the magic that happens when chocolate and peanut butter come together. Enjoy every rich, fudgy morsel and savor the delightful combination that makes these brownies truly unforgettable.